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Percival files for free agency

Percival files for free agency

ST. PETERSBURG -- Troy Percival filed for free agency on Thursday, the first day that eligible players could officially declare their intentions to test the market.

The 40-year-old right-hander went 0-1 with a 6.35 ERA with the Rays in 2009 before going on the 60-day disabled list with right shoulder tendinitis on May 22. Percival then returned to his home in the Anaheim area and rested for three weeks before starting to pay regular visits to a chiropractor and a muscle therapist. He did not throw a ball other than playing catch with his kids.

In August, when the Rays played in Anaheim, Percival sounded as if he planned to retire.

"When I was younger, I always came back fast and lasted. If you look at any of my numbers [this season], when I had a few days off, I was pretty good," said Percival. "And if I pitched a couple of times over four or five days, I would struggle. And that's not real good when you're in the bullpen. It doesn't work out real well."

Percival has 358 career saves in 703 career appearances.

Bill Chastain is a reporter for MLB.com. This story was not subject to the approval of Major League Baseball or its clubs.